A/N: This short arc about Smoker is only two chapters.

-Merry Go-

-Anya's p.o.v-

That adventure wasn't too bad, other than being turned into wax statues. We would have been dead if it weren't for Usopp's quick thinking. Failed Artist was not a push over either and that creepy looking girl had some way of using color to hypnotize people. Luffy fell for it. Anyway, we were set free by Usopp and took care of the Mr 3 pair and Mr 5 pair. Well... Luffy fought Failed Artist while we handle the rest. After that was done, we took the brat's rice cakes and had a party with the snacks.

Sanji also tricked Croc into thinking Failed Artist killed us, so we won't have to worry about him for a while. We managed to make it off the island thanks to our giant friends. They saved us from a giant goldfish by cleaving it in half. I'm impressed, yet Usopp held them in high regard. He was mezmorized he vowed to a strong warrior like them and someday travel to Elbaf. Good luck.

Currently, we're out at sea continuing out leisurely pace. Bro and Usopp were still declaring about going to Elbaf someday. I was mopping the deck when I walked past Nami and Vivi discussing the Eternal Log Pose we acquired. Oh, did I mention 'borrowing' one from Mr. 3, gift from the croc. Yes, we took it from him. It's eternally locked on Alabasta. We don't need to wait a year on Little Garden. Yes, a year. The giants informed us we would need to wait a year for the Log Pose to set. Nah, not waiting that long.

Anyway, as I walked by I noticed Nami looking... different.

"Nami, you okay."

She looked at me and smiled, despite the sweat on her forehead. "I'm fine, just tired from what we went through."

"Yeah," I nodded, accepting the answer... but some part of me feels it's not just that. Like... does she look alright? She is different than usual. I don't maybe I'm just overanalyzing her. There's nothing to worry about if I'm overthinking, right? Bah, no use worrying. Ya know, the more I think about Alabasta, the more I wonder if the marines are going to get involved. What if that smoke guy and his crew are there. That means that blue moron is there too. Thinking about him pisses me off.

Keep cool, even if I see him again I'm going to punch him in the face.

-3 Days earlier-

Tashigi sat in her quarters, reading about the events and reports about the world. Too many things were going on, the latest were everything going in Alabasta. The rebel faction was posing to be a problem, the king was aloof and seemingly corrupt, missing princess. There had to be something she could do, but at the moment all she could do was help fend the innocent against pirates, notably the Strawhats. Finding Roronoa was necessary to collect all the swords. Unfortunately, they had to take a detour, one hopefully won't last too long.

A knock on the door interrupting her thoughts.

"Come in."

Entering the room was the new recruit they picked up, Chief Petty Officer, Miyako. Tashigi smile at the woman, reminding herself not to use her rank as Master Chief to intimidate the girl... not that she would unless there was insubordination. Rank aside, she would try to be friends with the aloof girl.

"Miyako, hello. Is anything alright? Are the people here bullying you?"

"No, 'ma'am."

"Not making friends? You need to expose yourself more and not be a wallflower."

"Fine... no worries."

The dark blue haired female chuckled a bit. "You don't have to call me ma'am. Just Tashigi."

The red head nodded. A half smile graced on her face "Just want to be… polite."

Miyako was woman who didn't speak much. When she did, it was like she was too lazy speak more than a sentence. You would think she was someone with no drive or passion... there was passion. She seen the girl practice karate and it was an amazing contrast from her usual demeanor. She was quick and deadly in combat compared to her slow and soft self now."

"You know," Tashigi pulled up a chair and sat down. "Why did you become a marine?"

"Peace…"

"You want to try and enforce peace?"

A simple nod from the girl told all. "Difficult, but we have to try… What about you?"

"I'm just tired of all pirates breaking the law." The woman patted her katana on her right waste. "Plus I want to collect the legendary weapons from the outlaws that have them. It's my way of saying these swords shouldn't be in evil hands."

"Roronoa Zoro... to fight?"

"Yes!" She fiercely vowed with determination. A small smile pushed itself on to Miyako's face and then quickly vanished. Her half-way opened eyes, indicating her relaxed nature, stared at her superior officer.

"Root for you…"

"Thanks, I want to take of it on my own."

"Ken… wants Lavender Lancer."

"Ken's attention to her is for his own amusement. He doesn't see her as a threat and wants to prove he's stronger than her."

"Cocky..."

"Correct. He will likely gloat after he defeats her. If I know him, he'll sing it to her and mock how weak she is."

The red head nodded.

"Anyway… what do you think about the situation over in Alabasta, a civil war doesn't do anybody good. I wish I could help out."

"Their business…. not ours… not yet."

"Yeah, that's if whoever is the victor is aligned with the Government or not.

"Correct." The 19 year old red head yawned. She took out a piece of gum. "Gum?"

"No thanks, the music you listen to pretty old fashion."

"Hmm… I don't like... latest trends... much." The girl sat as she plopped a piece of gum. "New things pop up… old things are forgotten. When… I was 5... collecting 'Architecture weekly' magazines."

"Hmm… if you like that why did you join the Marines?"

"Hobby… not career. It's like your fascination for legendary swords. No desire… blacksmith."

Tashigi giggled, which was odd for someone like her. "I don't see myself crafting swords, but I do like the style and design of each sword."

Miyako nodded with a smile. "Indeed. I hope we can protect one another…"

"You scratch mine and I'll scratch yours."

-On the deck—

"Ken." The blue haired man was occupied with his fishing before turned his attention to his superior. "Yes Captain."

Smoker walked up and leaned on the side. "When we get there you have to make sure everyone is on alert. Reports suggest this has been happening for 7 weeks. The locals thought they could handle it before they finally decided to call the Marines.

"Why didn't they call us sooner?"

"They're worried about those within our ranks causing greater damage."

"I get it. Most of top ranks tend to be fruit users or those with maximum spunk." Ken said as he felt something tug on his line. He smirked and started reeling. "Errg…. We kick ass and get things done. Most pirates…. tend to cause property damage." Finally reeling it in; he jerked back and pulled on the fishing rod. Flying out of the water was a 3 foot tall fish, green and yellow. It flopped on the deck before Smoker impaled it with his jutte.

"The city hasn't been in too much trouble with pirates in the past, but they were still threats. They have a police force that has been going strong thanks to an ex-bounty hunter. The city of Reinaisse, is a work of art. That place is a well-built establishment and has the civilians relying on philosophy as their way of life. To preserve that they try to handle threats on their own and they think relying on the World Government to interfere with their problems is a side of weakness, but they are a part of the government due to the King always attending the summit."

"Ex-bounty hunter eh? Yeah, their police force is stronger now than it was in the past. I guess all it takes is some has-been hunter to turn it around.

"Yes. 'Wildcat' Roy. A pirate hunter that always went after pirates. Some of the time he keeps them alive to turn into us, other times he kills them. Doesn't care about their threat that much, but he'll leave the Shuchibukai alone. He hates pirates just as much as every other marine."

"Why did he stay? I know he's in his late 60's, but he's been there for 18 years."

"After Gold Roger was killed. The pirate era increased greatly. It probably had an effect on Reinasse to the point where he had to stay and enforce his law. I don't know the exact details, but I heard someone helped cure him of a disease. He probably felt the need to repay the city back or he's secretly an artist. The point is, if he's asking for help then he must have gotten rusty."

"Yeah…" Ken replied while frowning at the impaled fish. "I was going to toss that back in, but I guess someone is having fish tonight or I can preserve it as a trophy."

"Trophy." The captain walked away with his jutte in hand. "Oh and think of this as an exercise. Next time don't let the wind distract you."

Ken laughed lightly. "Yeah, and let's not have the world's most dangerous criminal randomly showing up." He sighed slightly. "You think it's odd Dragon showed up? Why Strawhat?"

"I don't know, what I do is when we meet him, I will get answers."

-Reinasse docks, later in the evening-

The city of Renaisse is a city-state based on 14th century Europe. This place is famous for its arts and literature. The word comes from the period of the Renaissance which means rebirth. Meaning that a new age will ignite. Here it feels like time has stopped here and the populace chose to keep a firm grasp onto this ideal.

Despite not feeling modern, they do have a bit of technology, but not too much. They rely on learning about past philosophy in order to prepare for the future.

The artsy like atmosphere was due to the buildings having an old fashion presence to people who visit or live there. While most of the world feels they should progress, this city would rather keep their heritage and not to want to become something soulless in the process.

Smoker gazed at the city. Outside he looked neutral and not caring, but on the inside he was quite interested…. quite. He turned his attention to his troops. Tashigi, Miyako, and Ken stood behind him. Behind them were 40 of their marine soldiers

"Alright, we have a mission here and that mission is scope out for anything odd and peculiar. You were briefed on the ongoings around here. Pair up in a group of three or four people. Scope out for anything suspicious. If you hear a form of laughter then I want you to scope it out, but be discreet. Tashigi go find the resident doctor he might give us more of an idea about this disease. I'll be looking for someone named Roy, he's the resident enforcement around here and ex-bounty hunter. Lieutenant Ken be discreet and look for clues about anything and anyone suspicious." He glared at them. "Questions?"

Not a peep was heard from the unit. Smoker took that silence as positive as he turned to face the city.

"Dismiss."

-an undisclosed location-

Within a lab, a 68 year old man gazed at a table with an unconscious person laying on it. The man had gray hair, donned on a pair of glasses, and long white lab coat. A twisted grin appeared on his face as he reached for a cup filled with pink liquid.

Knock knock

The man sneered at the sound of door. With annoyance in his voice he said. "What? Get in here!"

The door opened revealing a woman with, in her 30's, with long brown hair. She donned on black pants, black boots, a white collared shirt, and brown vest with the letter T on it. Placed in her hair was a black feather. She smirked at the man with her brown eyes. "That's no way to talk me you old coot. You forget who you are dealing with."

"I haven't forgotten, I just don't like it when people disturb me and my work."

The woman looked at him with a bored expression. "Hmm." She glanced at the operating table and noticed the unconscious man."

"Did Mr. 11 get that for you?"

"Yes, last night." He chuckled at the display. "He he, it was refreshing to acquire my new patient. Quite refreshing. HA!" He turned around, displaying his pearly white teeth. "HA! He was scared, frightened, very very sleep deprived. I hated it, so I knocked him." He stared sadly at the ground. "He didn't get knocked out with a smile." He smile widly. "But when he wakes up there will be smiles to go around." He pumped his fist up. What good is fear when there are smiles that need to be nurtured."

The woman tilted her head, merely finding him odd and wondering why they wanted him to join their ideal world. Right, it was the boss's idea."

"I can still be a member of your utopia right." A creepy smile poured on his face. "Right?"

Shaking off the feeling of dread, she nodded. "Yes, Mr. 0 promised." 'He also said to kill you once you outlived your usefulness. This man is barely grasping on to his sanity."

The outlawed woman warily stared at the mad man. Each time he cackled, each time he smiled. It gave her chills. It gave her enough reason to keep her distance. If it were not for the money and the promise of a home, he surely would most like put them under the same treatment as the civilians of Reinasse. One look at the effects, both lethal and non-lethal, told her she needed to keep guard at all times. Until this man was dead she will have to keep him occupied until his job was done.

"What about Alabasta?" the scientist sat down at his desk and wrote down some of his notes. "I read it has gotten worse.

"The fools are still blaming the royal family," She chuckled. "Our agents are doing their job just as the boss ordered." She leaned against wall. "We'll be leaving for Alabasta in a few days. With the Chuckle Venom the entire kingdom will be easier to subdue after paradise is achieve. We'll spread it to the rest of the world. Not even the World Government will give us any problem. That's only if you are able to replicate the non-fatal type."

She cringed when the scientist slammed his fist on the desk. "Bah, that won't do. That Vegapunk will figure out how to counter my venom somehow. He's supposed to be a genius… A GENIUS!" He turned around and got up. "That's why I will make it irreversible. Yes! Vegapunk is the only person who is a threat."

"We'll deal with him somehow. Boss has a plan."

"We have a problem."

All eyes turned to the new arrival. The figure was a man with donning on formal wear. He wavy grey hair and tattoo of a one under each eye. He was Mr. 11, partner of Miss Thusday. The female frontier agent strolled over to her partner, remembering to keep her distance from the mad scientist. "What?"

"A marine ship has just parked on the harbor." He watched her face turn from content to shock in a second. "It was a matter of time before help was called, but it won't matter. Tomorrow is when this plan of ours comes together for entire city."

"If it's the marine and a fruit user then I can handle it." The scientist chuckled. "I have a perfect place for users. Although it depends on the user."

"It's Captain Smoker, the White Hunter."

"MARVELOUS!" The man spun around in his chair. "I know how to handle him, if it was that light Logia then a few mirror tricks will distract until I fill his tomb with water. HAGAGA!" He gaggled again. The eleven pair glanced at each other and returned their attention back to the mad scientist. Baroque Works has gotten themselves in a situation. If the professor can hold down the White Hunter then the rest will be a breeze. They will have to wait until the time in Alabasta for everything to play out. Soon a utopia will be created from the ashes of the desert kingdom.

"I hope you have everything ready tomorrow. We have agents stationed around ready to strike."

-Ken-

Ken spotted a group of people with spears a few yards away in an open field. His objective was on hiatus while he had to see what these people were doing. After all, a crime had been committed and any civilian could be a suspect. So naturally you find the roughest group of muscle-bound morons with faulty appearances and interrogate them. He found them, all sitting around laughing, drinking while watching another four horsemen ride across the field. The riders were clad in thick armor, too thick for him, and had lances around them. He examined the lances for a moment.

"These don't look like they are for straight up combat." He thought to himself. "Are they… for jousting?"

Jousting, now that was something he was familiar with. His trainer had him learn to fight while on horseback in the event he needed chase someone. Even though he learned how to ride, he never had the opportunity to fight on a horse. This opportunity could help him train for the day he rode on horseback or whatever animal he needed.

He shouldn't be distracted. He'll have to keep an eye on these men while stationed here.

"What's a marine soldier like you doing here?"

The lieutenant snapped out of his train of thought and turned his attention to an older man standing before him with an analytical glare. He had brown hair, tan skin, and wore a suit of armor. The man held a tight grip on his lance as he studied Ken.

Ken held out his hand to shake. "I'm a lieutenant. Ken is my name. I'd like to ask a few questions."

"Gardo, I'm head of the jousters here and no, not one of my men is involve with the smiling victims."

Ken nodded. "I never held that against them and I never said a thing about the smiling victims."

"It's why you are here and you were assuming any of us are guilty. I can tell just by looking at you. You carry yourself with pride and your eyes are telling me you believe I am lesser than you. All you marine types seem to think anyone not a decent looking has something to hide. Of course," He looked at Ken's face with a smirk. "Such arrogance will get you gutted you bloke."

The blue haired male rolled his eyes. "Where have I heard that before?"

"People tell you that a lot? They are right."

The blue haired male eye started twitching. "Yeah, well I haven't faced a threatI could not beat. Someday I take on the most powerful pirates in the New World."

"You mean one of the four emperors? Ha you're not there yet kid. You are nothing, but an insignificant speck in this world of ours. You can get stronger, fiercer, but there will always be someone better than you kid." He saw Ken's spear. "That weapon of yours." He grinned. "Are you any good or are compensating for something."

"Of course I'm good with this!" He roared as he crossed his arms. "I beat down tons of outlaws and only one managed to get by me."

"Some pirate gave you the slip?" He scoffed. "Some no name pirate I bet. What the hell were you doing brat? Did you sleep on the job?"

"No! She was no name before and then got a bounty."

"A woman? You let some girl beat you? I guess whoever gave you that rank probably wasn't right in the head. Even worse if it was a kid younger than you."

Ken leered as the group laughed at him, bruising his pride more. "Bastard, if I was someone else you wouldn't be standing here." Ken mentally said. "I could've defeated her if some unforeseen circumstances didn't hinder our fight."

"Excuses kid."

"I'm in my twenties, 'sir'. Now answer my question." Ken was reminding himself to find a bar somewhere and drink this away. "Have you seen anything suspicious or not?"

"No, I haven't. Do you have anything else to ask me brat?"

Ken stared at the man for a few moments and then crossed his arms as a smirk crawled up his face. "Yeah, I challenge thou to a jousting match. Three wins. If I win you give me the respect I need."

"If I win you will have to kneel before me as a means of surrender and apologize."

Ken frowned. He was too proud to submit to people he didn't like. Heck he was not fond of submitting to people he did like. There is rank, but that's because he has to. He would not kneel or bow to anybody if he had his way. "I won't kneel to the likes of you.".

The man stood silent for a few moments. "There goes your arrogance." He chuckled. "Alright fine, when do you want to do this?"

"Tomorrow night, with these wise guys as the audience." He jerked his thumb to the men behind him. Said men stopped what they were doing and tuned into the argument between the two men.

"Sure you don't want to be in front of crowd."

"I'm on duty during the day so it will be best at night with hardly anyone else around."

"Fine, be here when the sun sets and I'll put you in your place." He extended his hand. "May the best man win."

"Which will be me." Ken grasped the other man's hand and shook. "And I'll get your respect whether you like it or not."

"Brat…" He released himself and walked away. Ken stared at the moving form of the man he just challenged. With a snort he walked away while the other men smirked at him.

"You going to lose soldier boy, our boss is the best there is."

Ken smirked. "He hasn't faced me dude. I'll show him my true strength."

The second guy laughed out loud. "Oh…. You crack me up. This will be entertaining."

Ken shrugged and left the men to themselves. He still had to check around town for any clues, this was just something he wanted to do on the side while he was here. Something like this wouldn't hurt his job. On the other hand he had feeling things were going to get more eventful."

-Miyako and Tashigi.-

"Not since a few days ago." Spoke an elderly man. "Sorry, but I really hope you all catch him."

Tashigi smiled warmly. "We will, it is our duty to protect you all is it not?"

"Yes, I'll be sure to tell your people immediately. Will you be forming a party with Roy's officers."

"My captain is on his way there as we speak. No doubt he and Roy will join together."

The two of them said their farewells. The blue haired woman strolled back as she continued to admire the architecture of the city around her.

"Why do I feel so uncouth? It's like I don't belong here."

While she was walking she spotted Miyako talking to a man, whom had shaken his head with sign of no. Miyako bowed and walked away. That girl was so polite, you would think she was too passive for her own good, other than being a marine of course.

"Tashigi… no luck."

"Nothing yet?" She sighed. They could ask away with everybody here, but sooner or later someone was going to inform them of any sign of trouble and it might be too late for this mystery to be solved. She didn't want an entire city to laugh themselves to death. "What about you?"

"…. I am behind you Tashigi. Please… put your glasses on. You're…. talking to a Fool.""

"Miyako that is no way to…" The older woman ceased herself once she put her glasses, getting a full view of the person she had mistaken for her colleague. It was tall and very fair-skinned individual with a bucktooth, big eyes, and sported a very unrefined smile. He had black and red clothing and wore an uncultured hat.

"HELLO!" He waved in a simpleton like manner. "You are newbies to our fine city? Welcome. Quinn's the name. Harvey Quinn, I bring smiles, laughter, all sorts of things to increase your heart three times its size. HA HA!" He extended his hand. "Put er there lass."

"HEY YOU BASTARD!"

A female being soared in, seemingly out of nowhere, and tackled the man to the ground. Her appearance surprised two the officers. Tashigi quickly regained her composure and stepped forward.

"What are you doing to him?"

"Doing?" The woman growled and took out a pair of handcuffs. "This idiot has been causing ruckus everywhere. He's also a suspect in the case of the laughing victims, but this fool has been pranking people everywhere!"

"… But… isn't that his job?" inquired the red head. Within her eyesight three men garbed tan colored uniform appeared. They had matching pants, a tunic, and brown leather boots. Each of them also had a hat and were all armed with swords. They stood back and watched the scene before them.

"If people want to prank others they need a permit. The pranked person has to be noted ahead of time by the employer so not cause a lawsuit. The pranks have to not cause collateral damage and putting victims in the hospital." She hefted him up just as the two woman caught a full view of the female.

She was a woman in her 30's with short brown hair, green eyes, and garbed in warrior attire. Brown boots, white leggings, a brown tunic, a utility belt and a cap. Equipped on her waste was a pair of tonfas. She had a scowl on her face as she glare at the fool, but replace it was small smile when she turned to the women.

"You gals don't look like you are from here, am I correct?" She saw Miyako's cap. "Ah, Marines, I guess you girls are here for the laughing victims."

"Yes," Tashigi smiled. She seemed to admire that there was another female warrior on the side of the law. "I am Master Chief Petty Officer Tashigi and this is Chief Petty Officer Miyako."

Miyako gently stood up and approached her. "Charmed…."

"Really? Heh, I'm Junior Lieutenant Jean Arc of the Reinaisse Police Corp. I am helping Sheriff Roy turn this place in a safer city for our civilians just like you are enforcing the law around the world. I admire your work." She sent a glare at three men. "You guys send him in for interrogation. Be nice with him and if he isn't taking…. then take off the kid gloves."

The men saluted and relieved her of the arrested man. With the Fool in their possession, the officers reroute their path to the department. Jean crossed her with an accomplished look on her face. She then turned back to the two women. "Since you guys are new here, how about I show you around. Perhaps a drink?"

The blue haired woman shared a glance at her friend, who showed a small soothing smile. Knowing the answer, Tashigi turned to the older woman. "Alright, but I don't drink."

"Oh come on." She patted the woman on the back. "A little won't hurt. I don't get too drunk while on duty. You youngins have nothing to worry about."

Miyako calmly shrugged. "I wouldn't mind…. Getting a little buzz."

Tashigi sighed in defeat. "Fine, but Miyako don't overdue it! Remember we have to be on alert."

"…. Yes mom…."

"…mom?" Tashigi eyebrow twitched. "Yeah, you keep thinking that… little girl."

Miyako cheeks puffed, feeling annoyed.

"Heh, come on I can show you a guy who believes in the philosophy of his ancestors. A man who claims to never speak more than 10 words each hour."

"What's your philosophy?" inquired the blue haired woman. "This places pride itself in it."

"Mine is to think therefore I am. I'm not into the complex stuff, just something simple. Now that guy." She pointed at a man near a food stand. "He probably has some philosophy about believing a hidden power or not knowing about oneself or something even about mother nature. Hn, I don't know. Almost everybody here feels so high and mighty with their over-the-top stuff and learning from even more complicated mistakes of the past. Geez."

"Everybody has their preference. You have to let your actions reflect your belief.

-Police Station, Roy's office—

Sitting at the desk was a bald headed man with gray hair on his face. He donned black pants, blue shirt and a black vest. He was also barefoot too.

"Horatia How long will the antidote for this take?" inquired Roy as he spoke on his Den Den Mushi

"I need a few more days. I managed to make some progress on the mixture and managed to isolate the components from each other. The man behind this is a tricky fellow and intelligent. I ordered the materials this morning. Anything else."

"It still sounds like we're behind," The man grunted. "They are getting too confident. Not only are the civilians the target, but the nobility is being threatened. I don't need their 'high and mighty' attitudes breathing down my neck. Another downside is I have men in the hospital because of them and they all succumbed to this virus. Groups don't help either, they have some kind of strategist on their side. Damn."

"Ease up Roy, you did find something today, right?"

Roy nodded. "Yesterday a noble was attacked, but was luckily thwarted by Jean and my men. Heh, Jean was a maniac out there from what I heard. Unfortunately the man got a way, but dropped a clue." He closed his eyes, thinking about the note. "Don't go anywhere tomorrow ya here?"

"Tomorrow huh? I guess I'll cancel all my appointments and just stay home."

"Staying home, might work for you since they are attacking all the important people. However…"

The door to his office opened revealing a black haired woman. "Roy, Captain Smoker is here."

"We got more muscle, send him in."

She nodded and walked away. Moments later Smoker appeared through the doorway.

"Captain Smoker." He spoke with respect.

"Sheriff Roy I assume." Smoker spoke with neutrality, but still gave some respect to the man.

"Captain, I have Dr. Horatio on call. He's helping me with the case and hopefully have a cure."

"I can't see you captain for obvious reasons. I have heard a lot about your exploits. Stopping pirates before entering the Grand Line."

"If I don't then I'm not doing my job."

"Yes, now if you excuse me I'll be taking my leave. Everything I have written is in the document for Captain Smoker to look at." Roy hung up the snail with a click.

"I heard people are showing up laughing and displaying permanent smiles. Anything else I should know about?"

"Business first eh?" He chuckled. "Alright, take a look at these. In here you will find pictures of the victims and what kind of chemicals are being used to hold them in that state, even after death."

Smoker sat down and analyzed the file filled with pictures of the freakish smiling people and notes from Dr. Horatia. The marine furrowed his brow as he read each line carefully and studied the appearances of the person as an artist would.

"As you can see each victim has a permanently eerie smile plastered on their faces. Some of the victims end up being in a coma or die. I lost two of my men to this and now I fear the entire city, perhaps the island will become hazard if we don't find the interlopers."

"These chemicals he used. It must be a long and lengthy experiment for him to get this far."

"Hydrogen Cyanide and Strychnodide." Roy picked up a glass of water. "Two devilish chemicals mixed together to form a very menacing plague. Causes cessation of the heart and brain functions."

"Severe tighten and discolor of the skin due to contraction of the muscle. Not something I want in my system." The white hunter closed the file. "You called the right people 'Wildcat'. I'm kind of surprised?"

Roy chuckled. "Just because I am a former bounty hunter doesn't mean I hate all of you. Yeah I can't handle your fancy rules the marines have, I prefer to be free and hunt those pirate scum." He got up and walked toward the window. "There isn't a time of day where I wish I was out at sea, but I'm old and don't like adventure as much as I used to. I have to step aside of the next generation of brats. Such as you."

"I'm in my 30's 'Wildcat."

"Still a brat." He sighed, "This new generation of pirates are just kids. Eustace 'Captain' Kidd. 'Strawhat' Luffy. What's up with these brats and why the hell are they in the pirate life.

"Don't know about this Captain Kidd, but I ran into that 'Strawhat' back in East Blue. He's searching for One Piece."

He scratched the bridge of his nose. "Roger is an ass. Anyway, we have problems? We need all the manpower to get this done before something devastating happens."

"You think something bigger will happen."

"My gut says so, plus those bastards have gotten a bit more proactive. Tried abducting a noble's daughter last night, so there has got to be a bigger plan in all of this."

"A failed attempt at abducting a noble is serious. Did they catch them?"

"No, but they dropped this." He yanked out a piece of paper from his pocket. "This is a list of influential people in this city. If they fall, then the city falls. Plus there is a date says the plan will be enacted tomorrow."

"Why tomorrow?"

"That's when our annual fair is held. Alot of people of all classes will be there. The big thing around here are the jousting and archery games. You see? There will be a huge turnout, nobody will miss it.

Smoker's expression turned calculative and stern. "A big group of important figures in one place? I see… They will need some kind weapon to activate on a huge crowd. Go at it one at a time will cause suspicion and the nobles not being there will cause our antagonist to cease their activity and go under; making it impossible for us to track them. We need to find something that is out of the ordinary to the untrained eye. Also, this biological, so you know what that means?"

"I will have my men keep an eye on the hydro plant. Without fresh water we'll surely perish. Foodwise, we'll be sure to keep on the vendors as well."

"No one has been behaving strange from either correct?"

"I've been drinking and eating. I feel fine."

"Then you're normal, is there anything else we need to be aware of."

"No, I told you everything there is to know. The rest will have to come with time. They slipped up once and we have a list of their targets. We know they are planning something at the Tournament. All we need to do is prepare. Their hideout is a priority."

"Then we will capture a and interrogate." The hunter exhaled smoke. "Have they been taunting your unit?"

"Taunting? I had a few men become victims and one of my officers feels like she is always being watched."

Smoker raised a brow. "Being watched, huh? Is she very important in the police force? If she feels like she's being watched then she is or she too paranoid."

"She doesn't get paranoid. She one of our outstanding members… and… noblewoman."

"Hn… I didn't think a noble would get their hands dirty."

Roy formed a smug look. Something that made the marine captain light twitch on his eyebrow. "She is the kind that gets her hands dirty. She's trained to fight and encouraged me to stay on this island."

The white hunter nodded. He didn't want to pry into more of his private life unless it benefited the mission. He already guessed this noblewoman being someone important to the former hunter. Someone important enough to stop him from living his previous life and actually convince him to stay put. He always heard Wildcat was a stubborn man, perhaps with age comes common sense.

Before anything else was, there was a knock at the door.

"Come in."

An officer opened the door and saluted.

"Sir, we captured someone who had fitted the description from yesterday. All thanks to Jean."

Roy chuckled. "That a girl. Knew she was part bloodhound. Where is she?"

"She went somewhere with two women from the marines."

Wildcat gazed at Smoker. "Members of your unit?"

"Tashigi and Miyako, the two of them can handle themselves. Now," Deciding to change the subject. "About this character she apprehended."

"We can get whatever is out of him by tomorrow."

"Good… I have a bad feeling." Smoker crossed his arms. "Tomorrow is going to be hectic, should've been here sooner."

-A local bar-

Tashigi gaped at what she had just heard from the woman in front of her. The three of them sat at a bar to get more acquainted. The blue haired woman would rather be in a more non-aggressive environment to communicate, but if this girl felt right at home, then who was she to complain, but she did not know the girl was a noble herself. Most nobles she encountered would never lift a finger to do any physical for the… common folk and just used money to make themselves look good.

"Lemonade and wine go great right?" The female officer spoke blissfully as she took a sip. "I like to come here and get my mind off things."

Way different from the average noble.

"Did Roy… train you?" inquired Miyako.

"Of course! I asked him too. My folks were heavily against it and threatened to disown me. Heh…. I made the right choice."

The blue haired female frowned. "That's horrible! They shouldn't disown you! Doesn't the importance of family matter."

Jean let out a sad chuckle. "You would think so, right? The wealthy have the best education they can get, well informed, healthy, and all that." She sipped her drink joyfully, "Prestige, appearance, and money are all that matters. Mom and dad didn't get married because they love each other. It was business. Me? I was just a mistake after drinking too much of the good stuff. They adore my older brother who is the current heir. They handed me off to the maid to raise me. If I was raised by them, I would be just as snotty as they are. They only cared if I ruined their image like with Roy, but since Roy cleaned up everything... they tolerate me with him.

She glanced at the two of them with a warm smile. "I found 'Wildcat' injured on the side of the road. During that time I still had my family's wealth. I decided to use that money to pay for his medical bills. I visited him during his stay, it was only right for him to know who is paying for his health."

She shook her glass a little. The two marine women continued to listen to her story.

"He was such a private person, barely talked about himself. He told me a few stories of his past, but never anything personal until he decided to stay and take me under his wing. Five days later he left the hospital to go to a local bar for a drink. Such a bastard ya know. He didn't like the food nor did he want his skills to rust."

She chuckled at the memory

"I found him in the bad part of the city fighting some of worst bandits in the city. Hartfield, that guy was bad news, but Roy killed him."

" 'Twin Kick' Hartfield. Bandit. 65,000,000." Miyako stated. "… very dangerous man."

Jean nodded. "Yeah, but ol' Roy took care of him no problem. There was some property damage, but he showed that fiend not to mess with him. I asked if he could stay after getting better."

"What did he say?"

"He was against it, wanted to continue hunting pirates. I begged him to stay and help our city get in shape. I asked if I could go with him, he said he didn't need a woman holding him down. Still hurt, I gave him an offer to stay here for 3 weeks. He was still injured so of course he stayed"

She smirked. "After that time he started seeing a few injustices going on here and there. Our law enforcements were underpaid, unorganized, and spread too thin. After much thinking he decided to stay for a bit… then I got kidnapped by local gang in the shadow district."

She smiled. "Worst time of my life. They wanted my family to send the ransom money." Her eyes darkened as her happy look faded. "Those morons didn't lift a finger to help me. I was at their mercy until Roy came and unleashed his brand of justice."

"You helped him, so he returned the favor." Spoke the sword wielder.

"Yeah, on that day he made a vow to clean up this place. So he decided to do things to bring back the force of justice."

"Such as?"

"He did things, like organize training seminars, hosted meetings, fundraisers. He did whatever he can to stop pirates, bandits, or whoever from preying on the weak. This city may seem nice, but there are a lot of dark elements."

She took another sip. "There were only 20 officers in the entire city in a small building. With Roy he bashed everyone to make things right. He even exposed a corrupt politician who had been deteriorating the police force for his own gain."

She chuckled. "Now we have four branches across town and over 200 law enforcers, plus a few more branches in the next city. Roy took me under his wing and trained me with these tonfas." She spied Tashigi's weapon. "That's a good sword you have there."

Tashigi eyed the tonfas. "I don't think I can use something like that. I prefer something longer. Our weapons are an extension of our body, so I figured a longer reach would do."

"Jean took another sip. "See, we each got our own preference. Red here likes to use her fists. What do you call your fist Miyako? Law and Order?"

She shook her head. "Miss Left… and Miss right. Something simple."

Jean laughed. "Simple! HA! Good, keep it that way. Nothing too complex."

"I can't believe you got someone like 'Wildcat' Roy to become a force of justice." Tashigi couldn't help, but smile. "I myself am not fond of bounty hunters."

"They still fight pirates."

She nodded. "I know, but I feel you should at least work with the law instead of being a rogue or some kind vigilante."

"Roy… has worked as marine before, but he quit once he became a Lieutenant. He felt it wasn't right for him."

"He could have been a capable marine." whispered Tashigi.

She shrugged. "He could, but he didn't stick around. I'm glad he's here and taking charge." Jean decided to change the topic. "Say…. Do you gals like Fudge?"

Tashigi nodded, and then felt goosebumps crawling up her skin as she saw a bright flash erupt in the eyes of fellow officer. She smiled. "I think Miyako would kill for some."

"Depends…." The red head spoke with a mellow tone.

"Damn, I think she would also sell her own mother. You can tell your boss you can stay with me tonight right? We can have a fudge party."

"Fudge party…. Hooray." Miyako thrust her fist in the air while looking victorious.

"Yeah, a fudge party! WOO!" Jean raised her glass. "Alright!"

Tashigi smiled at the display. "Might as well."

The door to the bar burst open revealing a man. He had on a brown cloak and a black hat. He scanned around the room until he found the table with the three women. He noticed Miyako's hat and snarled at her. With the flick of the wrist, he threw a dagger. Striking the table and antagonizing the girls. He quickly dove just as Jean got up.

"I'm going to have a few select words with that man." She jumped up from her seat and dashed away with the intention of fighting.

Tashigi stood up while gripping her sword. "Come on Miyako!"

The red head spotted a piece of paper attached to the handle. "…hmm?"

-outside-

She shot out the door with her tonfas ready and prepared herself for combat…. ,but she found the streets were barren. Only the moon kept her company before the two women ran out of the bar to join what they thought would be a fight.

"Where is that bastard! He threatened us with assault and runs like a coward. I'm going to kick his ass when I find him."

"I agree," Tashigi gripped her weapon as she scanned around. "This is a serious violation against the law."

"A warning…"

Both sent a curious look at their red head companion who was busy staring at a the piece of paper that was previous attached to the knife.

"What does it say." Miyako calmly said

"It says…"

-Ken's location-

"Leave us to our devices 'White Hunter'. Leave here and never return." Ken read the note in his hand. He held his spear in the other hand and held a tight grip on it. He lifted his gazed and looked around his surrounding. 6 beaten marines were sprawled out on the ground. The person who did it was standing in front of him. An 8 foot tall man wearing a brown hooded cloak.

"Telling us to up and leave. Why the hell would we do that?"

"A warning you fool!"

"You struck my men." He narrowed his eyes. "They may not be the toughest dudes around, but they can handle certain threats. Now you!" He aimed his spear at the man. "You are going to answer to the number 1 dragoon on this side of the Grand Line. Me? 'Blue Piercer' Ken at your service."

"Never heard of you."

"You will after I beat you and your crummy operation."

"Tomorrow you and I will engage and I will win. You have another day until you die."

"Nope!" Ken stomped his foot and blitzed toward the man. "You and I going to rumble right here and right now!"

"No." He jumped up just before the spear pierced him. "You are nothing." He landed and proceeded to punch Ken

The marine whirled around and took the fist to the face. The taller man unleashed a powerful spinning back fist at the young marine. The force of the impact sent him flying back. Ken grunted as he hit the pavement. He shot eyes open and quickly sat up. Before he hit the ground, he thought of a good witty remark for his opponent. Unfortunately that could not happened because the man disappeared.

"So… trouble." He smirked. "I'll let him have that surprise fist to the face for now. Tomorrow I'm giving him the smack down. Before that happens." He sat up. "I need to get these guys to a hospital."